Union, NJ (Feb. 16, 2020) - Alvernia University's (0-1) ninth inning comeback fell short as Drew University (1-0) took a 3-2 win in the 2020 season opener, hosted at Kean University.

After Drew's first two batters of the second inning were walked, Brent Lincoln hit a bases clearing double to put the Rangers up 2-0. 

Drew tacked on its third run of the game on a double in the top of the sixth to go up 3-0.

Alvernia responded in its half of the sixth with Gavin Blakenbiller leading off with a single, and Joe Ginder getting on with a double. Luca Grammatica drove Blankenbiller in on a ground out to second to put Alvernia on the board. Mike Cirilli then drove in Ginder with a sacrifice fly to to left to cut Drew's lead down to 3-2.

Still trailing 3-2 in the bottom of the ninth, Alvernia's Chris Javier reached base with one out on a single through the right side. Pinch running for Javier, Michael Simmerman advanced to second on a wild pitch. Simmerman then reached third on fielding error by the Rangers. Drew then forced a double play on Brandon Smith's at bat to end the threat and take the 3-2 win.

Brian Kane got the start for the Golden Wolves and went six innings, giving up four hits and three runs while striking out three. Shane Ostrowsky pitched three innings in relief, striking out four and allowing one hit.

Alvernia heads back to Kean University tomorrow to take on the Cougars. First pitch is slated for 3:00 PM.